Back To School '25 edition : simplebooklet.com

From the Editor Dear Readers,Welcome to Texoma Parent Magazine, where our mission is to be your steadfast companion on the ever-evolvingjourney of parenthood. As the editor, I am deeply passionate about empowering parents with the knowledge andresources needed to navigate the inevitable hurdles of raising a family, all while fostering a path of self-healing andpersonal growth. In the whirlwind of daily life, it can be challenging to find time for education and self-care, but webelieve that these are crucial components in creating a nurturing environment for both parents and children alike.In our magazine, you'll find a carefully curated selection of articles and resources designed to support you in everyfacet of parenting. From expert advice on managing stress and promoting mental well-being to insightful storiesfrom fellow parents who've walked similar paths, we aim to provide a beacon of guidance that fits seamlessly intoyour busy life. Thank you for inviting us to be a part of your parenting journey. We are here to support you everystep of the way.With warmth and encouragement,Brenda TerrellEditor, Texoma Parent MagazineYou’re not alone & you can do this!1.

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Texoma Parent MagazineLet’s Do Crafts!“My First Day Pencil Buddy”Age Range: 3–8 years Theme: Back to School –Encourages creativity and eases first-day jitters! Craft Time: 15–20 minutes Supplies:Jumbo craft stick (or popsicle stick)Googly eyesScrap felt or foam pieces (or construction paper)Glue (or glue dots)Markers or crayonsSmall yarn pieces or pipe cleaners for hair (optional)Stickers or washi tape for decorating (optional) Instructions:Decorate the Stick: Color the craft stick however you'd like – it could look like a person, ananimal, or just be full of fun designs.Add a Face: Glue on googly eyes and draw a mouth. You can add cheeks, a nose, or eveneyelashes!Make Hair: Glue small yarn or pipe cleaner pieces to the top for silly or stylish hair.Add Arms or a Backpack: Cut tiny felt or paper shapes to make arms, or attach a mini paper"backpack" on the back.Name Your Buddy: Use a marker to write a name across the stick – it could be the child’s name,“First Day Friend,” or something silly like “Mr. Pencil Buddy.”2.

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20Texoma Parent Magazine"The Dad Cave" is a page dedicated to supporting men with practical advice, relatable stories, andcreative ideas for dads.The Dad’s Guide to Surviving School Drop-Offs Let’s be honest: school drop-off is the parenting version of rush hour NASCAR. You’ve got 400cups of coffee battling last night’s sleep deprivation, a child melting down over sock seams, and a carline that moves slower than your grandpa’s flip phone. Welcome to the drop-off zone, Dad.If you’re new to the game (or just trying to stay sane), here’s your survival guide — full of real talk,humor, and a few tips to keep you cool when everything else is hot and chaotic.1. Wake Up Before the Chaos (Even If It Hurts)Yes, you could hit snooze three times… but starting your day ten minutes earlier than your kids givesyou a fighting chance to mentally prepare. Coffee? Check. Clean pants? Hopefully. Deep breath?Mandatory.Pro Dad Move: Keep a “dad stash” in the car — deodorant, floss picks, a granola bar, and backupsocks for when someone forgets.2. Pre-Pack or Prepare to PanicBackpacks? Water bottles? That random field trip form? It all mysteriously disappears at 7:29 AM.Prep it the night before if you like calm. Or embrace the chaos — either way, it’s coming.Pro Tip: Keep one of those “Dad brain” sticky notes on the dashboard with the daily must-haves.It saves lives. (Mostly yours.)3.

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Texoma Parent Magazine4. Stay Cool When It’s a Meltdown MorningSome days your kid jumps out smiling. Other days? They cling to you like a barnacle sobbing “DON’TLEAVE ME.” It happens. You're not a failure — just a father.Keep calm, connect, and carry on. One big hug. One brave goodbye. One donut on the way home foremotional recovery.5. Make It Your ThingWhether it’s blasting silly music, telling a joke of the day, or using the same goodbye phrase (“Go beawesome, buddy!”), create a little ritual. These small things turn school drop-off from a chore intoconnection.Final Thoughts from the Driver’s SeatYou're doing more than getting them to school on time. You’re the calm before the storm, thecomfort in the chaos, and the voice they’ll remember when the school day gets tough. And even ifit feels like a blur, they notice.So throw on that baseball cap, crank up the dad playlist, and take a deep breath. You’ve got this,Dad.3. Master the Car Line Like a ProAh, the car line: where the rules are made up and courtesy is optional.Dos:Pull all the way forward (yes, you — all the way).Have your kid ready to launch like a mini-paratrooper.Smile at the teacher on crosswalk duty — they’ve had coffee too.Don’ts:Get out of the car. Ever. It’s car line law.Watch TikTok while blocking the lane.Yell out reminders as your kid walks away. Let it go, Dad.4.

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Prepping these five simple tasks thenight before — lunches, backpacks,clothes, water bottles, and breakfast —can save you 15–30 minutes everymorning. That’s time you could spendsipping coffee, connecting with yourkids, or simply avoiding the chaos oflast-minute scrambles. A few extraminutes of prep at night = a calmer,more connected start to the day. Yourmorning self will thank you!5.

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KIDS OF TPMTexoma Parent MagazineJoin Our Magazine Family: Call for Kid and Adult Models!Are you or your child interested in stepping into the exciting world of modeling? We'rethrilled to announce that our magazine is seeking fresh faces for our upcoming issues,and we want YOU to be part of our diverse and vibrant community! Whether you'rean aspiring model or just looking to try something new, this is a fantastic opportunityto showcase your unique style and personality. We are searching for both kid and adultmodels who are ready to shine and bring our stories to life. No previous experience isnecessary—just bring your enthusiasm and creativity! To sign up, simply visit ourwebsite or message our page for more details. We can't wait to see you on our pages!6.

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Back to School Safety: What Every Parent Should Know Before the First Bell Rings As our kids head back into the classroom, it's easy to get wrapped up in supply lists and first-day outfits —but don’t forget the most important prep of all: safety.From the sidewalk to the schoolyard and everywhere in between, here’s what parents need to know to keep theirkids safe this school year.STREET & SIDEWALK SAFETYWhether your child walks, bikes, or takes the bus, back-to-school season means more foot traffic — andmore reasons to be alert.Teach your child to:Cross only at crosswalks and never between parked cars.Make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the street.Use sidewalks when available and walk facing traffic if there are none.Wear bright clothing or a reflective backpack if walking or biking.Parent Tip: Do a practice run of the route together and point out safe spots to cross and places to avoid.BUS STOP BASICSSchool buses are designed with safety in mind, but kids still need reminders.Remind your child to:Arrive at the bus stop early and wait in a safe, visible spot.Never walk behind the bus.Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before approaching.Stay seated while the bus is moving and follow the driver’s rules.SCHOOL GROUNDS SAFETYInside the school building, most injuries happen during recess or transitions.What you can do:Talk to your child about using playground equipment properly.Encourage kindness and respect during play — a lot of injuries come from roughhousing.Make sure your child’s backpack fits well and isn’t overloaded (10–15% of their body weight max).Label all belongings to avoid mix-ups and prevent lost items.7.

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HEALTH & HYGIENEClassrooms are full of community — and germs.Encourage these healthy habits:Wash hands before eating and after using the restroom.Cover coughs and sneezes with the elbow.Avoid sharing drinks, snacks, or personal items.Stay home when sick to keep others safe too.TECH SAFETY & COMMUNICATIONIf your child has a phone or device, back to school is a great time to revisit rules andexpectations.Discuss with your child:When and where devices can be used.Online safety, including not sharing personal information.Who to contact in an emergency (program trusted contacts into their device).Parent Tip: Create a family tech agreement and keep it posted near your family charging stationor message board.BONUS: MENTAL & EMOTIONAL SAFETYA safe school year isn’t just about physical protection — it’s also about emotional well-being.Remind your child they can talk to you about anything.Know the signs of bullying and encourage your child to speak up if they or someone else isbeing hurt.Stay connected with teachers and staff. A strong parent-school relationship makes it easierto catch problems early.Back to school season is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming. The best thing we can do asparents is equip our kids with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to navigate it safely. A fewsimple conversations now can make all the difference later.8.

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Texoma Family Meal IdeasQuick, Kid-Approved RecipesSweet Potato “Nachos”Ready in: 30 minutes (can prep ahead) What You Need:Thinly sliced sweet potatoesOlive oil + saltGround turkey or beefBlack beans, corn, avocado, chopped spinachHow-To: Roast sweet potato rounds until crispy. Top with cooked meat, beans, veggies, and serve nacho-style.Breakfast-for-Dinner SkilletReady in: 15 minutes What You Need:Diced potatoes or frozen hash brownsBreakfast sausage (or plant-basedoption)Bell peppers and spinachOptional: avocado or cheeseHow-To: Sauté everything in one pan. Serve withfruit and toast or tortillas on the side.9.

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DIY Taco BowlsReady in: 15 minutes What You Need:Brown or white rice (pre-cooked or microwave)Ground beef or turkey with taco seasoningBlack beans, corn, chopped lettuceToppings: salsa, avocado, olivesHow-To: Let kids build their own bowls from the toppings bar. Great forpicky eaters!Meatball Pasta Bowls Ready in: 20 minutes What You Need:Pre-cooked frozen meatballs Cooked pastaMarinara sauceSteamed broccoli or green beansHow-To: Heat meatballs and sauce while pasta cooks. Toss together and serve with a side of veggies.Stuffed Bell Pepper BoatsReady in: 25–30 minutes What You Need:Bell peppers (halved and cleaned)Ground beef or turkeyCooked rice or quinoaTomato sauce, black beans, chopped spinachHow-To: Brown meat and mix with rice, beans, sauce, and spinach. Fillpepper halves and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.10.

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BACK TO SCHOOL, BEYOND THE BACKPACKA Parent’s Guide to Helping Kids Feel Ready — Inside and Out“The goal isn’t perfection — it’s presence.” New crayons, fresh notebooks, lunchboxes lined up by the door — we tend to focus on the outwardsigns that school is starting. But while school supplies matter, your child’s emotional, mental, and physicalreadiness will shape how they actually experience that first day (and every day after).Whether you’re sending your child to school for the first time or just adjusting after a long summer, here’show to make the transition smoother for both of you. Ease Separation AnxietyEven the most independent kiddos can get the first-day jitters. Practice mini separations at places like a grandparent’s house or friend’s home to build confidence. Create a comfort connection — like a matching heart drawn on your hands or a tiny note in their pocket. Read together: Books like The Kissing Hand or Llama Llama Misses Mama give language to theirfeelings. Reset Sleep RoutinesEarly mornings are coming — and bedtime battlesdon’t have to. Start adjusting bedtime and wake-up time acouple of weeks ahead of the first day. Reduce screen time before bed, ideally cutting offelectronics an hour before lights out. Use calming routines like bath time, soft music,or reading to signal it’s time to wind down. Set Expectations & RoutinesRoutines give kids the confidence to know what’s next — and how to succeed. Talk through their day in advance, from wake-up to pick-up to bedtime. Make it visual for little learners. Try picture schedules or magnetic routine boards. Build in rhythm: Repeating songs, snacks, or simple rituals make routines feel comforting and fun.11.

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Fun Facts: Did you know?Having a doula atyour birth canreduce the need formedicalinterventions andlower the chance ofa C-section by upto 39%! Did you know? Ababy’s brain doubles insize in their first year!That’s why nurturingenvironments andresponsive parentingmake such a bigdifference.No backpack can carry courage, and no lunchbox can hold emotional safety. That’s your role —and you’re doing it beautifully. As you send them off into a new school year, know this: yourpresence and preparation make all the difference.“Big transitions bring big feelings — and that’s okay.” Make Drop-Offs Calm and ConnectedThe first goodbye of the day sets the tone. Wake up early enough to allow for some cuddle or playtime before rushing out. Use a goodbye ritual: A hug + high-five + wave can become your daily send-off routine. Model confidence: Your calm, loving goodbye shows your child that everything is okay.Find our Back to School Readiness Checklist on the next page12.

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EMOTIONAL PREP☐ Talk about what school will be like ☐ Visit the school or meet the teacher (if possible) ☐ Read back-to-school picture books ☐ Practice mini separations ☐ Create a “comfort connection” (photo, hand-drawn heart, special note) ☐ Choose a goodbye ritual (hug, high-five, wave)Back to School Readiness ChecklistSupport your child emotionally, mentally, and physically for a smooth start to theschool year. MENTAL PREP☐ Set clear daily routines ☐ Create a visual or written schedule ☐ Talk about expected behaviors (classroom, lunchroom, playground) ☐ Practice asking for help and speaking up ☐ Set up a homework space (even if simple) SLEEP & ROUTINE RESET☐ Shift bedtime/wake-up 1–2 weeks early ☐ Cut off screen time 1 hour before bed ☐ Create a calming bedtime routine ☐ Prep mornings the night before (clothes, backpack, lunches) PRACTICAL PREP☐ Label all supplies, lunchboxes, and water bottles ☐ Try on and wash school clothes ☐ Pack a backpack with essentials (and a comfort item if needed) ☐ Discuss emergency contacts and after-school plans ☐ Check that vaccinations and school forms are up to date CONVERSATION STARTERSUse these after school to build connection: “What made you smile today?” “Who did you sit with at lunch?” “What’s something new you learned?”You’ve got this. And they do too. A little planning goes a long way in building confidence, reducing stress, and helping your child feel safe,loved, and ready.13.

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Learning Styles Matter More Than You ThinkOne of the biggest gifts of homeschooling is the ability to teach to your child's actual learning style — notjust the one-size-fits-all method used in most classrooms.Visual learners thrive on charts, videos, and diagrams.Auditory learners do well with read-alouds and conversations.Kinesthetic learners need movement, hands-on projects, and breaks to wiggle.Pro Tip: If your child hates worksheets but can explain a science concept using Legos or sock puppets, that’slearning. Don’t fight it — embrace it.Start Simple with CurriculumYou don’t need to drop $1,000 on boxed curriculum right out of the gate. Start with a few core subjects (reading,math, writing) and explore add-ons once you find your rhythm.Popular beginner-friendly resources:The Good and the Beautiful (faith-based, open-and-go)Easy Peasy All-in-One (free, online, full curriculum)MasterBooks (gentle pacing, great for young learners)Teaching Textbooks (interactive math, ideal for independent learners)Torchlight or Build Your Library (literature-based, secular) When I first considered homeschooling, I pictured sun-drenched kitchen tables, freshly sharpenedpencils, and my kids joyfully diving into learning. What I didn’t picture? The tears (mine and theirs), thecurriculum overwhelm, or the occasional panic spiral at 2 a.m. while Googling “Is my 7-year-old behind inmath?”Homeschooling can be deeply rewarding — but it also comes with a steep learning curve. If you're aTexoma-area parent thinking about making the leap, here’s what I wish someone had told me that first year,plus practical tips to help you feel more confident from the start.Homeschooling 101: What I Wish I Knew My First YearHomeschool Corner14.

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Understand the Legal Basics in Oklahoma & Texas*Disclaimer* Always check your state and local laws for yourselfBoth Oklahoma and Texas are considered homeschool-friendly, but there are a few key things to know:Oklahoma:No registration required.Must provide instruction in reading, writing, math, science, and citizenship.Schooling should be equivalent to 180 days per year.Texas:No registration or testing required.Homeschool is considered a form of private school.Curriculum must include reading, spelling, grammar, math, and good citizenship.Tip: Always document your schooling (attendance, work samples, resources used). You probably won’t need it— but it’s smart to have.You’re Not Alone: Find Your PeopleHomeschooling can feel isolating at first, but Texoma is home to a growing network of support:Local Co-opsFacebook groupsLibrary story time, etc.Local meetupsOther Things I Wish I’d KnownEvery family has hard days. If your kids melt down, if you cry in the pantry, if the dog eats theworksheet — you’re not failing. You’re normal.Deschooling is real. If your kids come from public school, they may need time to adjust and relearnthe joy of learning. It’s okay to ease in slowly.You can pivot. Don’t love the curriculum you chose? Change it. Don’t want to homeschool forever?That’s fine too. You’re not locked in.Homeschooling isn't about perfection. It's about presence. It's about tailoring education to your family’svalues and your child's heart. And while it might look messy and nonlinear — it can also be one of themost meaningful adventures you ever take together.If you're on the fence, know this: you don’t have to have it all figured out to get started. Just begin.“There is no school equal to a decent home and no teacher equal to a virtuous parent.” – MahatmaGandhi15.

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Start Where They Are: Tips for All AgesBabies & ToddlersUse board books with textures, flaps, or real photosRead with silly voices, sing-song tones, and big expressionsKeep books in reach — not just on shelves, but in play areas and diaper bagsPreschool & Early ReadersLet them choose what you read — even if it’s the same book every nightLabel objects in the house to build word associationRead with them, not to them: pause to ask questions, let them fill in wordsElementary & Middle GradePair books with their interests (sports, animals, video games, etc.)Try graphic novels or audiobooks to spark reluctant readersDon’t stop reading aloud — even big kids love a good storyRaising Readers: How to Build a Book-Loving Home Before kids learn to read, they learn to love stories. And one of the best things wecan do as parents — whether our kids are 2 or 12 — is build a home that encouragesreading not just as a skill, but as a joy.If you want to raise a reader, you don’t need a teaching degree or a giant bookshelf.You just need a few simple habits, some creativity, and a willingness to make bookspart of everyday life.Start a Family Reading RitualWant to make reading part of your family culture? Try one of these simple traditions:Family Reading Time: Everyone grabs a book after dinner — even if it’s only for 10 minutes. Noscreens, just stories.Read-Aloud Nights: Choose a chapter book to read aloud together as a family. (Bonus: voicesand snacks encouraged!)Reading Challenges: Create a monthly chart or checklist with fun goals like “Read under ablanket” or “Read a book about animals.”Book Basket Rotation: Keep a small basket of seasonal or themed books in high-traffic areas —and rotate them weekly.16.

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Favorite Picks for Every Age Babies & Toddlers (0–3)Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr.Moo, Baa, La La La! by Sandra BoyntonGlobal Babies by The Global Fund for ChildrenPreschool & Early Learners (4–6)Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo WillemsThe Snowy Day by Ezra Jack KeatsPete the Cat series by James Dean & Eric LitwinEarly Elementary (6–8)The Princess in Black by Shannon & Dean HaleNarwhal and Jelly by Ben ClantonFrog and Toad by Arnold LobelUpper Elementary (8–10)Dog Man by Dav PilkeyThe Wild Robot by Peter BrownMagic Tree House series by Mary Pope OsborneTweens (10–12)Smile by Raina TelgemeierAmari and the Night Brothers by B.B. AlstonPercy Jackson & the Olympians by Rick RiordanBonus Tip from the Librarians:“Let your child explore multiple genres — graphic novels, nonfiction, fantasy, funny books, andpoetry all build reading confidence in different ways.”17.

Back To School '25 edition

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